Meet Our Herd, Donate and/or Sponsor a Horse

Due to the specialized nature of our services and the need to be fiscally responsible, we are unable to operate as a rescue for elderly horses with health complications. We appreciate the intention behind retiring horses to be used in therapeutic programming. We do not want to ever appear ungrateful or overly choosey but our clients bond with each horse and the cost of properly supporting end-stage animals is extremely high. We love our herd and will support each animal in our care to remain comfortable and healthy into old age. Therefore, for new horse acquisitions, we have some particulars in the horses we are seeking to ensure that the arrangement works both for the program, the clients & the horses. These are:

• Age: 7-20 years old (some flexibility but no horses over 25 will be considered)

• Gender: Goofy geldings are preferred, but mares are welcome if friendly with others (group classes). No stallions, no exceptions.

• Height: Preference for horses under 17 hands.

• Soundness: Horses must have a free-moving stride and be comfortable at walk, trot, and canter, with or without a rider. Horse with a history of founder or requiring injections will not be considered.

• Condition and Conformation: Good physical condition & conformation is a must. As our horses age, we are not opposed to the maintenance required to keep them happy and comfortable, but we are not seeking horses that requiring maintenance at the time of acquisition.

• Personality/Temperament: For our level of riders, we love the 'more whoa than go' type. We seek horses that are tolerant, enjoy attention & getting loved on, have excellent ground manners, and can handle multiple handlers while being ridden. They should be calm, forgiving, and able to tolerate unexpected shouts or movements. Comfortability in and out of the arena is an asset.

• Training: While we don’t require a horse with all the buttons, we cannot accept green or untrained horses. Horses must have safe ground manners, be non-reactive, and preferable been exposed/desensitized to vehicles, loud noises, and indoor/outdoor environments. The horses you’d throw your kiddos or grandma on are the ones we are after!

Conditions:

• Trial Period: We are willing to come to you to test out the prospective horse(s) or haul them to our arena. However, given those we serve, safety is paramount so we will not make unseen offers. Ideally, we would like a trial period to test the horse on-site and ensure it will be able to be safely used within our programs and services.

• Vet Check: All horses being considered for acceptance into the LTRA program herd must undergo a veterinary examination prior to acceptance or have available examination documentation dated within 30-days of the proposed acceptance date or can be arranged by our staff. Fees associated with the veterinary examination will be covered by LTRA for horses accepted into the program and/or for vet checks arranged by LTRA

Your horse will receive quality care & plenty of love and attention. Our horses are turned out any time they are not in class and able to live in as horses with their herd mates.

Have a horse that might fit the bill? Please fill out the form below or reach out to our Executive Director via email at: [email protected]

Thank you!

Caring for our horses is essential to the success of our programs and the well-being of our clients. Our herd, the real heroes of Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association, requires substantial resources to maintain their health and comfort. Between vetting, farriers, ongoing treatments, and feed, horse care represents a significant expense for our organization.

By sponsoring a horse, you can directly contribute to their well-being and ensure they continue to thrive in their vital roles. Sponsoring a horse is a meaningful way to give back, and it comes with several benefits:

• Tax Receipts: Your sponsorship is eligible for a tax receipt.

• Recognition: Have your name published on our website.

• Perfect Gift: Make a wonderful gift for horse lovers.

Sponsorships are available in 1-month, 6-month or 1-year terms. To learn more about each horse and how you can support them, please click on the individual profiles below or use the form provided to learn more or sign up for a sponsorship.